Key information

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Plant details

Often called eggplant because of the shape of earlier varieties, this is a lush, tropical plant whose fruits have become popular with our more adventurous changes in diet. In a warm season, plants can be very productive, especially under glass, outdoors they are sensitive to cold winds and heavy rain, and are best grown in large pots which can be moved under glass, if necessary. Pinch out growing tips when 30cm (12in) high to encourage branching, and stop fruiting sideshoots when five to six fruits have set. Pick fruits before the skin loses its gloss, a symptom of over-ripeness.

Family: Solanaceae

Genus: Solanum

Species: melongena

Cultivar: Long Purple

Plant type: Fruit

Foliage colour: Mid-green

Sun exposure: Full sun

Soil: Well-drained/light

Hardiness: Tender

Skill level: Experienced

Height: 90cm

Spread: 60cm

Time to plant seeds: February to March

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